How to Change a Name on a Car Title in New York
Change your vehicle title after marriage, divorce, or a court-ordered name change in New York. No lawyer required — the process uses standard New York DMV forms.
When You Can Change the Name on a New York Car Title
New York processes name change title transactions at DMV offices. New York law allows name changes on vehicle titles when supported by official documentation.
Step-by-Step Process in New York
Update your New York driver's license or state ID to your new name before going to New York DMV. You'll need the new-name ID to complete the vehicle title change.
Get a certified copy of your marriage certificate (from the county clerk), divorce decree (from the court clerk), or court order. Standard photocopies are not accepted.
New York uses MV-82 for all title and registration transactions including name changes. Available at any DMV office or downloadable from dmv.ny.gov.
Bring all documents in one trip: completed form, current title, certified name change document, and your new-name ID. New York requires a certified copy from the issuing authority — not a standard photocopy. If using a divorce decree, it must include the judge's signature and court seal. Marriage certificates must be certified by the county clerk.
Pay the $50 title fee. Your new title will arrive by mail in 10–30 days. Keep your receipt as proof of the transaction.
Required Documents in New York
- 1MV-82 (Vehicle Registration / Title Application)
- 2Current New York title
- 3Certified copy of marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
- 4New York driver's license or ID in the new name
- 5Current New York insurance card
Court order is NOT required for marriage or divorce name changes in New York. The certified marriage certificate or divorce decree is the controlling document. Court orders are required for legal name changes outside of marriage or divorce.
New York requires you to update both your driver's license AND your vehicle title to the new name. Update your driver's license first — you'll need the new-name ID to process the vehicle title change. DMV appointment scheduling is strongly recommended for New York City locations.
New York Car Title Name Change FAQ
How do I change my name on my car title in New York after marriage?
In New York, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate plus MV-82 (Vehicle Registration / Title Application) to New York DMV. New York requires a certified copy from the issuing authority — not a standard photocopy. If using a divorce decree, it must include the judge's signature and court seal. Marriage certificates must be certified by the county clerk.
How do I change my name on a car title after divorce in New York?
After a divorce, bring a certified copy of your final divorce decree (with judge's signature and court seal) to New York DMV along with MV-82 (Vehicle Registration / Title Application). New York uses MV-82 for all title and registration transactions including name changes. Available at any DMV office or downloadable from dmv.ny.gov.
Does New York require a court order to change a name on a car title?
No. Court order is NOT required for marriage or divorce name changes in New York. The certified marriage certificate or divorce decree is the controlling document. Court orders are required for legal name changes outside of marriage or divorce.
How much does it cost to change a name on a car title in New York?
$50. New York charges $50 for the new title reflecting the name change. This is the standard title fee.
How long does a car title name change take in New York?
New York processes title name changes through the DMV. Scheduling an appointment at dmv.ny.gov significantly reduces wait times. New title mailed in 10–30 days.
What documents are needed to change a name on a car title in New York?
Required documents in New York: MV-82 (Vehicle Registration / Title Application); Current New York title; Certified copy of marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order; New York driver's license or ID in the new name; Current New York insurance card.